With so many heroes passing in the first four months of 2016, including longtime friend Merle Haggard, there is a certain extra comfort in knowing that the mention of Willie Nelson's name in the news today is because the pride of Abbott, Texas is still very much alive and kicking as he turns 83 years young today.

While others half his age try their best to whip out an album every few years or so and play a few shows every summer, Nelson is keep a steady one-album-a-year pace and there's a saying that if he and his Family band aren't playing somewhere close this week, they'll be through soon enough. For we Chicagoans, our next chance to see Willie will be June 25th At RiverEdge Park in Aurora, IL.

Until then, help us in wishing Willie a very happy 83rd by spinning your choice of five versions of "Yesterday's Wine" and a heaping helping of his biggest hits on our Ultimate Willie Playlist!